Kowatch attends O'Brian leadership seminar

Kowatch joined more than 43 other young leaders representing as many high schools from throughout Western Pennsylvania. Selected to represent Somerset High School, Kowatch is the daughter of Lawrence G. and Deborah A. Kowatch. The Somerset Kiwanis Club was the local HOBY sponsor.

HOBY Leadership Seminars bring together a select group of high school sophomores to interact with groups of distinguished leaders in business, government, education and the professions to discuss present and future issues. The goal is to provide the youths a stimulating forum for learning about the free market and democratic process while broadening their understanding of their leadership potential and quest for self development. HOBY leaders are also challenged to return to their communities to perform at least 100 hours of community service within 12 months following the Seminar.

"The seminar challenged me to think about the world around me and what we, as the future leaders, have to do to positively influence business, government, and society," said Kowatch. "I also better understand that my goals and dreams are important and that leaders have extreme responsibilities in whatever walk of life they pursue.

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Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership was established in 1958 by the popular actor Hugh O'Brian following a visit to Africa where he was inspired by a meeting with Dr. Albert Schweitzer. "One of the things Schweitzer said to me was that the most important thing in education was to teach young people to think for themselves." O'Brian said. "From that inspiration, and with the support of others who believe in youth and the American dream, I started HOBY to seek out, recognize, and develop outstanding leadership potential among our nation's youth."